Bursa Ayvaini Weekend Camp Caving Course

The Ayvaini Weekend Caving Camp is a comprehensive program held around Fadıllı Village in the Nilüfer district of Bursa, teaching basic caving and vertical-descent skills in a two-day camp format. Frequently used by suppliers in the Marmara region, this campsite serves as an ideal training laboratory thanks to both its ease of access and the variety of caves surrounding it. The program begins Saturday morning and ends Sunday evening; throughout this time you camp in tents pitched on flat ground near the cave entrances, spending a weekend immersed in nature. The training prioritizes practice and allows each participant to progress at their own pace.

Camp Program

Upon arrival at the campsite on Saturday, tents are pitched on the flat ground near the cave entrances and camp is organized. In the morning session, certified instructors cover basic safety, knot knowledge and equipment introduction. This is followed by SRT (Single Rope Technique) practice on stations rigged in the open area. In the afternoon, descent and ascent maneuvers are repeated and reinforced. In the evening, the region's caves and the next day's plan are explained around the campfire. On Sunday, the group performs basic traverse and mapping practice in the local caves, testing what has been learned in a real cave environment. At the end of the program, camp is packed up and a general evaluation is made.

What Will You Learn?

In this camp you acquire the basic skills of single rope technique. You will practice controlled descending on rope, ascending with mechanical devices, descent-to-ascent transitions and basic safety maneuvers. The distinctive feature of the Ayvaini program is the basic mapping and traverse training carried out in the local caves; you will experience in-cave orientation, safe movement through narrow passages and group communication discipline. Correct use of the harness, familiarity with descenders, and carabiner and knot discipline are also cornerstones of the program. Instructors supervise every maneuver individually.

Camp and Logistics

Accommodation takes place in tents pitched on the flat ground near the cave entrances. The level terrain makes tent setup and camp comfort easier. Shared technical equipment, ropes and station-rigging gear are brought by the supplier team. Participants provide their own personal camping gear such as sleeping bags and mats; helmets, harnesses and descenders can be supplied via the rental option. A shared kitchen setup is arranged throughout the camp and the group prepares meals together. Since you will be staying in a natural environment, keep in mind that network and electricity access may be limited.

Equipment and Safety

Safety protocols are at the center of the camp. Stations are rigged with double-backup by certified instructors and equipment is checked before every descent. Helmet, harness, descender, jammer and carabiners are included in the rental scope; those with their own gear may bring it. Static ropes, anchoring material and shared technical equipment are provided by the team. Participants are expected to bring sturdy footwear, cave-appropriate clothing and gloves. Group size is kept limited for safe supervision and instructors are experienced in first aid.

Who Can Join?

The Ayvaini camp is designed for beginners and requires no prior caving experience. Anyone with basic physical fitness who can manage themselves in narrow, enclosed spaces can join. Participants aged eighteen and over are accepted; minors require parental consent and instructor approval. Those with a tendency toward claustrophobia are advised to speak with an instructor before registering. This program builds a strong foundation for those wishing to move on to advanced cave exploration.

Location and Access

Ayvaini is located around Fadıllı Village in the Nilüfer district of Bursa and is easily accessible thanks to its proximity to the center of the Marmara region. The final stretch to the campsite runs along a village road. The meeting point and transport details are shared with participants after registration. Parking is provided for those arriving by car, and a shared meeting arrangement is organized for those using public transport. Despite the region's mild climate, dressing in layers for the cool of night is recommended.

This weekend in Ayvaini's cave-rich geography lets you both develop your technical skills and encounter a real cave environment for the first time. Pitch your tent and get ready to make a safe start in caving with your first maneuvers on the rope.